Taunton School rugby stars selected for England Lambs

Two Taunton School students are celebrating this week after being selected to play rugby for England Lambs.

Thomas Houghton-King and Ben Chaffey will tour Ireland this summer after being invited to play for the Lambs following a tough selection process in regional games.

Both boys currently study in Year 13 at Taunton School, where they play in the First XV.

Ben, 18, from Trull, said: “We’re both quite shocked to get through because we were selected out of 400 players. The standard of rugby was seriously high so to get through is pretty special.”

Thomas and Ben have already played some initial matches for England Lambs ahead of their Ireland tour.

Thomas, 18, from North Curry, said: “Rugby is a very team orientated sport so I’m enjoying meeting players from other schools and playing with them as team members rather than rivals. We both started playing rugby when we were very young and this is a celebration and recognition of everything we’ve achieved.”

Ben added: “We had a good grounding in rugby at Taunton School. We’ve always felt supported and part of a close-knit team. The school recognises talent, helps you develop and gives you opportunities without pressure.”

Taunton School’s Director of Rugby Nic Sestaret said: “Thomas and Ben are extremely hardworking, dedicated young sportsmen and we are incredibly proud of their work ethic and achievements. I’m sure they have bright sporting futures ahead of them.”